A TAXI driver had a lucky escape after the car they were behind the wheel of burst into flames.

Emergency services were called to St Cross Road, Winchester, on Saturday at 8.43pm to reports of a vehicle fire.

When the crew from Winchester fire station arrived the taxi was said to be well alight.

A service spokesperson said that the blaze had started in the ignition compartment and was put out using one hose reel.

It took firefighters just 45 minutes to extinguish the fire, before they returned to the station at 9.12pm.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary were also on scene.